Mentor of the Year Award Recipient 2023
Marcylle Combs, MAC Legacy
When did you begin your mentorship journey?
Mentorship, at its core, is about connection, growth and getting to know other leaders. Having spent over 40 years in home health and hospice, I’ve seen firsthand how vital mentorship is—not just for career growth but for personal leadership development too. In healthcare, where the pressure is always on, having a solid network can make all the difference. Mentorship helps build a strong, supportive community where people can share their experiences, lean on each other, and stay resilient.
The relationship between a mentor and mentee goes beyond conventional training or guidance; it fosters a deep connection built on trust, knowledge sharing, and mutual support.
Why did you seek to mentor with NAHC?
John Maxwell says, “There is no greater accomplishment for mentors than when people they develop pass them by!” A mentor has truly achieved their goal if a mentee has gone on to accomplish more than they themselves could have done! After being honored with the Mentor of the Year Award by the National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC), I’ve been reflecting on what this journey has meant to me and how it might inspire others in our community.
How was the NAHC Mentoring process?
Taking on the role of a mentor can significantly enhance your own professional growth and leadership capabilities. Mentoring requires patience, empathy, and effective communication skills—all of which are essential qualities for effective leadership. By guiding others towards success, you refine your own leadership style, strengthen your emotional intelligence, and cultivate a reputation as a trusted advisor within your organization.
How was your NAHC Mentorship pairing?
Not only has this opportunity been invaluable, reminding me that we’re all lifelong learners, but I have also gained so much more than I have given from the friendships I have formed through this. By guiding others through challenges you’ve already faced, you not only help them navigate complex situations but also reinforce your own skills and understanding.
Did you find the NAHC Mentoring program valuable?
Mentorship transcends the simple act of guiding another; it is fundamentally about forging deep connections, fostering growth, and facilitating mutual learning between mentors and mentees. I have had the privilege to have four young women as my mentees. Each one brought their own unique ideas and challenges, which has helped me enhance my own personal philosophy as a mentor and as a leader. They are smart, energetic, and willing to dedicate their professional lives to improving patient care and workplace conditions. Watching them gain confidence and achieve their goals has been incredibly rewarding—there’s nothing like seeing someone you’ve supported succeed! They have not only inspired me but given me hope and also reaffirmed my faith in the future of healthcare!
Would you recommend the NAHC Mentoring Program?
To everyone in the NAHC community, I say: think about how you can get involved. As we continue to support each other, the rewards are tremendous. We can continue to strengthen our entire community, paving the way for a more resilient and innovative future. Let’s cherish and perpetuate the spirit of mentorship—it truly is a gift that keeps on giving and a great way to significantly contribute to the home health and hospice community we serve.